After a four-month covert operation involving up to 40 officers, police raided four homes on Thursday, allegedly unearthing a cache of weapons, amphetamines and marijuana.

A 41-year-old man and a 36-year-old man were charged with a string of offences and refused bail at Narrandera Court on Friday, while a third man was charged with possessing a prohibited drug. The raids were conducted on homes in Binya Street and Conoparra Street, Whitton and on an address in Hoysted Road, Stanbridge.

In total, police found more than half a kilo of amphetamines, more than 2kg of harvested marijuana, 11 mature marijuana plants, hydroponic growing equipment, a shotgun, a rifle and an amount of ammunition.

Griffith LAC commander Michael Rowan paid tribute to the hard work of officers and issued a stern warning to local drug crooks.

“This should send a message that if you deal in prohibited drugs, you will be targeted,” Commander Rowan said. “These results are the culmination of a lot of hard work over a number of months. I praise the dedication and commitment of my officers to drive down drug crime in the area.”

The arrests were made as part of Operation Louise, which was established in June.

The 41-year-old accused faces 22 charges including six counts of supplying a prohibited drug, supplying a drug greater than the commercial quantity, possessing an unregistered firearm and knowingly dealing in the proceeds of crime.

His 36-year-old accomplice faces nine charges, including supplying a prohibited drug.

Both men will appear at Griffith Local Court next month.

Police investigations are ongoing and more arrests are expected.